On Monday August 22, 2022, deputies responded to Kentwood Brick on Highway 51 for reports of an employee being robbed. Throughout the investigation, deputies discovered Christopher Johnson, a resident of the Village of Tangipahoa, robbed a 17 year old coworker while both parties were in the restroom during a break. According to witnesses, the victim exited a bathroom stall where he was approached by Johnson and several other employees. Johnson proceeded to remove the victim’s cell phone from his pocket and told him he would give it back if the victim paid him $300. Meanwhile, another employee, later identified as Kevin Bates of Fluker, slapped the victim across the face. After the incident, Johnson left the brick plant for lunch and never returned.

Kevin Bates (49 years old, B/M) was charged with one (1) count of Simple Battery of a Juvenile, and was released on a summons.

Christopher Johnson (26 years old, B/M) is wanted for one (1) count of Simple Robbery, along with other outstanding warrants issued prior to this incident, including one (1) count Resisting an officer and one (1) count Armed Robbery with a Gun through the Independence Police Department.

Chief Jimmy Travis asks if anyone knows the whereabouts of Johnson to please call the Sheriff’s Office at 985-748-8147, OR if you wish to remain anonymous, please call Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s anonymous tip line at 1.800.554.5245 or visit www.tangicrimestoppers.com and click on the P3 Tips icon or Submit A Tip! You may be eligible for a cash reward.

**All persons accused of a crime are innocent until proven guilty.